Can male bettas and kuhli loaches live together?

Yes

Male bettas and kuhli loaches can share a tank. Their water needs overlap and neither is known to bother the other.

Betta (male) Kuhli loach

Why

  • Their temperature and pH ranges overlap comfortably, and neither is known to nip, chase or eat the other.

What each one needs

Betta (male)Kuhli loachBoth
Temperature76–82°F (24–28°C)75–86°F (24–30°C)76–82°F (24–28°C)
pH6.5–7.55.5–7.06.5–7.0
Minimum tank5 gal (19 L)20 gal (76 L)20 gal (76 L)
Keep at least15
Adult size2.5 in (6.4 cm)4 in (10.2 cm)

The smallest tank for both

A 20 gallons (76 L) tank holds 1 betta (male) and 5 kuhli loaches at about 48% of its stocking limit, which leaves room for more.

Other tank mates for male bettas

Other tank mates for kuhli loaches